X Factor bosses have discussed securing Boyzone's first performance on stage without Stephen Gately, in a tribute.

Stephen, 33, was a fan of the show and last year begged manager and judge Louis Walsh to give them a slot. Stephen said: "We told him, 'Come on Louis, you have to get us on the show for a song'... He'll have to. I'll be disappointed if he doesn't."

Stephen had been asked to be a celebrity host on the ITV2 show.

A meeting has been held to discuss the boys doing a moving farewell to "their brother".

But chiefs are waiting until they speak to Louis. A source said: "Stephen was a very close friend of the show. During a production meeting they were discussing ideas for guest performers. Boyzone were mentioned as an obvious choice.

"The huge outpouring of grief is hard to ignore.

"There have been lots of messages asking the boys to do some kind of tribute to his life.

"X Factor would be the perfect place as Stephen begged Louis to be on the show. It would be a very emotional night for everyone. There wouldn't be a dry eye."